On March 27, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded off the coast of Hurghada, Egypt, when a tourist submarine sank during an excursion, resulting in the deaths of six people and injuring nine others. The submarine was carrying 44 passengers, primarily Russian tourists, who were on a journey to explore the vibrant coral reefs of the Red Sea.
The governor of the Red Sea region, Amr Hanafi, confirmed that among the deceased were five foreign nationals and one Egyptian. The Russian consulate in Hurghada reported that four of the victims were Russian nationals, including two minors. The official statement indicated that the submarine had been transporting a total of 45 tourists, all of whom were enjoying an underwater adventure when the vessel sank approximately one kilometer from the shore around 10:00 AM local time (08:00 GMT).
According to reports, the submarine was owned by Sindbad Submarines, which claims to operate the "only" true tourist submarine in the region. Designed to accommodate up to 44 passengers, the submarine was capable of diving to a maximum depth of 25 meters. The company has been conducting underwater tours in the area for several years, showcasing the rich marine life and stunning coral formations that attract millions of tourists to Hurghada annually.
Emergency services responded swiftly, dispatching 21 ambulances to the scene. Eyewitnesses reported that many of the passengers were rescued and taken to nearby hotels or hospitals in Hurghada. Among the injured, four individuals are reported to be in critical condition.
The incident has raised serious concerns regarding safety protocols for tourist submarines, especially given the recent history of maritime accidents in the region. In November 2024, a diving yacht capsized off Marsa Alam, approximately 300 kilometers south of Hurghada, resulting in four fatalities and seven missing persons. Additionally, a fire on a yacht in 2023 claimed the lives of three British tourists. These incidents have prompted local authorities to investigate the safety measures in place for such excursions.
Local reports indicate that the submarine was in compliance with safety regulations and that its crew possessed the necessary qualifications. However, an investigation is currently underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, with officials examining potential factors such as weather conditions and mechanical failures. On the day of the incident, weather reports indicated clear skies but noted above-average winds, which could have contributed to the accident.
Hurghada, located approximately 460 kilometers southeast of Cairo, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant underwater ecosystems. In 2024, the airport in Hurghada welcomed over nine million passengers, highlighting the area's significance to Egypt's tourism industry. The coral reefs and surrounding islands are vital attractions that support a sector employing two million people and contributing over 10% to the national GDP.
As rescue operations continue, the focus remains on the well-being of the survivors and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. The local community and authorities are grappling with the implications of the accident, as it not only affects the families of the victims but also the broader tourism industry that is crucial to the economy.
The submarine accident has sparked discussions about the safety of tourist activities in the Red Sea, with many calling for stricter regulations and better safety measures for underwater excursions. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that lessons will be learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
In light of this incident, the Egyptian government faces pressure to enhance safety standards for all maritime activities, particularly those involving tourists. The recent history of accidents in the region has raised alarms about the adequacy of current regulations and the enforcement of safety protocols.
As the world watches, the focus shifts to how Egypt will respond to this tragedy and what steps will be taken to ensure the safety of tourists in the future.
